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A struggling wildlife park in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the outcome of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife reserve in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online announcement, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the property owner.”

“There were no real options left. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” said the facility’s manager.

“Although it might possibly continue as a lion park under different management, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial monetary input,” the manager explained.

In a subsequent update, the park verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the director said.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the park had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the property and providing for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to explore this possibility and hold onto hope.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “feasible or compassionate choice” due to their age, the number of cats involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were filled with messages from members of the public, begging for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed optimism that the park would reconsider the plan to put them down.

The manager mentioned that amid the supportive comments and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered hostile and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we manage this tragic predicament.”

The property owner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body indicated that the choice to humanely kill the lions rested with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A senior official explained that euthanasia had to be carried out compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be on location to verify this is done properly,” the official stated. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal care and security responsibilities.”

The sanctuary gained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it appeared on a TV program about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was killed by a white tiger while carrying out duties.

The park frequently experienced financial trouble and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to shut down until the enclosures were improved. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.